University shortlisted in nursing awards
University College Birmingham has been shortlisted for Best Student Experience in the national Student Nursing Times Awards 2023.
The University in the heart of Birmingham 's Jewellery Quarter is also in the running for Nurse Education Provider of the Year (Pre-registration) for the development of its nursing courses, going head-to-head with Keele University and Anglia Ruskin for the prestigious title.
In the Best Student Experience category, University College Birmingham is up against eight other institutions, with judges recognising the University 's emphasis on 'creating a holistic and positive student experience '.
Helen Eldridge, senior lecturer for Mental Health and Learning Disabilities Nursing, said: “We are beyond thrilled to make the finals of the UK Student Nursing Times Awards, recognising our dedication to the most excellent quality of student experience possible, and the close relationship between lecturers, practice partners and students to ensure the very best standards in the teaching environment.
“Our nursing programmes, which we launched at the height of Covid-19, are in their relative infancy, so to win would be incredible recognition. We have overcome and embraced huge challenges in the past three years and to see the very first cohort of students on our nursing programmes graduate this year and with such amazing experiences under their belt is a very proud moment for us.
“We are now training our fifth cohort of incredible nursing professionals of the future. ”
The grand final of the Student Nursing Times Awards, which celebrate the best of the next generation of nurses and their educators, takes place on Friday 28 April in a glittering live ceremony at the JW Marriott Grosvenor House Hotel on London's Park Lane.
The awards will be bringing together the nursing community to shine a light on the brightest talent making their way into the profession, highlighting excellence in all specialties of student nursing. The awards also provide the opportunity to congratulate the lecturers, practice supervisors, universities, trusts and private organisations providing the best support for student nurses during their studies.
Gabriella, a former dental nurse who was spurred on to take the plunge and go into full nursing due to the pandemic, was part of the very first cohort of Nursing (Adult) BSc (Hons) students at the University and will complete her studies in July.
“Being in the first nursing cohort was nerve-racking as I didn't know what to expect. But I soon realised it would be a privilege.
“While out on placements with other local universities, my classmates and I have had many healthcare staff asking about our uni and saying they can see a difference in our students.
“The University and nursing lecturers are supportive, understanding and are the pacemakers for a new generation of nurses. Classes are smaller, which allows more individualised teaching and builds a rapport between peers and staff. Not only do they ask for regular input and feedback, they action the suggestions and keep us part of the process."
As part of a wider collaboration, the University won Student Placement of the Year: Hospital at last year 's Student Nursing Times Awards.
In addition, University College Birmingham won University of the Year and Best Student Support at the 2022 Whatuni Student Choice Awards. The nursing students were instrumental in voting for these awards.